HOUSEHOLDERS in Arrochar and west Loch Lomond have a chance to reduce their energy use by up to 10 per cent and save around £250 in bills through a new challenge launched by a local firm.

Local project Change Works in Argyll is launching the Argyll Energy Challenge, offering residents the opportunity to take part and reduce their energy use and bills by installing a real-time energy monitoring system.

This system will be provided for free to help track electricity use in the home, reduce energy costs and cut carbon emissions.

Those volunteering to take part in the challenge will receive regular hints and tips on simple ways to save energy in the home and reduce energy bills.

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Jamie Proudfoot, senior project officer with Change Works in Argyll, said: “Argyll Energy Challenge is about community action on energy awareness to help cut energy consumption.

"The energy monitoring system that we will be providing free to local households will provide real-time information on the energy you are using in your home and how much it is costing you.

"The monitoring system can typically help householders reduce their energy use by up to 10 per cent and save an average of £250 per year on their bills.

"Simple changes to our daily habits can help avoid wasting energy and money.”

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The Change Works in Argyll Energy Challenge is part-funded by the Scottish Government and was developed by Change Works in partnership with Argyll and Bute Council.

It aims to reduce the amount of energy used by households in and around Argyll.

To find out about more about the project and register to take part, contact the Change Works in Argyll team via their Facebook page, email argyll@changeworks.org.uk or call 01721 722810.

Registration can also be completed online at http://bit.ly/ArgyllEnergyChallenge.

Jamie will be at the Three Villages Community Hall in Arrochar every Wednesday from 12.30pm until 4.30pm, or by appointment, offering advice and support to help improve the energy efficiency of your home.

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